11-12 Sections 4A-4AA Preview

This is the 23rd and final preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  We finish with a look at the little guys.  Its time to preview sections 4AA and 4A.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Section 4AA
Defending Champion: Minnehaha

Predicted Seeding

1. Concordia
2. Minnehaha
3. Trinity
4. St. Croix Lutheran
5. St. Agnes
6. Breck
7. St. Paul Academy
8. New Life Academy
9. Minneapolis Edison
10. St. Paul Humboldt
11. Brooklyn Center
12. Mounds Park Academy
13. International School
14. Great River
15. Hmong Academy

Another down year in section 4AA, especially with Blake moving up to 6AAA.  For sake of this preview, I'll assume Minneapolis Roosevelt stays in 6AAA.  The bottom 7 all figure to seriously stuggle this season.  EMAC gets the short end of the stick with the last 3 seeds.  New Life will be better than I expected (I messed up their preview) but the MCAA schedule won't do them any favors in seeding.  4-7 fall into place based on Tri-Metro finish.  Trinity wins their half of the MCAA and gets a 3 seed.  Concordia and Minnehaha are the 2 favorites.  I like Concordia with 9 seniors but don't count out the defending champs with one of the best scorers in the section, Gerald McCarver.

Sleeper: Breck.  Coach Matt McCollister has a group of 4 talented freshmen.  They'll take some lumps early but with a year under their belt, come tourney time they will be a tough out.

Section Winner: Concordia. Post Cutler Finneman is too much inside and he'll have help.


Section 4A
Defending Champion: Maranatha

I won't bother with seeding predictions because you never know who will actually play come section time.  23 teams are listed but I'll be surprised if more than 19 actually play.   Big story is the move of Minneapolis North into the section from 6AAAA.  The 2 favorites have to be Maranatha and Prairie Seeds Academy.  Garrison Gillard joins an already talented class at Maranatha and should have a big year.  Gage Deis joins Prairie Seeds and will be the top post in the section.  Heritage and Minnesota Transitions are 2 other teams I'm keeping an eye on.  Heritage has plenty returning from a 19-9 squad.  MTS won't be a juggernaut likes years past but will still have plenty to work with in forward David Wallendorf, wing Terrence Lofton and post Tevin Simms.  North, Legacy, CHOF, West Lutheran, Four Directions, FAIR, PACT and St. Croix Prep should make up the best of the rest in no particular order.  Ben Freeby (Legacy), Kyle Roy (Four Directions) and Tyler Strandlund (CHOF) are posts that will need to be prepared for.

Sleeper: Minnesota Transitions.  I see most sleeping on the Wolves with a Noreen no longer on the roster.

Section Winner: Maranatha.  I see too much talent and tradition there to pick against the Mustangs.

11-12 Section 3AAA Preview

This is the 22nd preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, we look at our final class AAA section.  Its off to the north metro for a look at section 3.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Columbia Heights

Predicted Seeding

1. DeLaSalle
2. Spring Lake Park
3. Columbia Heights
4. Minneapolis Patrick Henry
5. St. Anthony
6. Totino-Grace
7. St. Paul Como Park
8. Fridley

Plenty of talent in the top half of this section.  DeLaSalle leads the way in that department and with a whole season to educate the youth, I like them on top.  Spring Lake Park's run and easy schedule in the North Suburban gives them the 2 seed.  Sean Scott very dangerous for the Panthers and they have plenty of experience.  Ben Glover and Columbia Heights can't be discounted with their athletes.  Henry is a huge wildcard with Darius Hill, Shawn Atkins, Wunell Beard and Tim Gill (I'm hearing Deonte Blakemore is no longer there).  The recent coaching search there was botched badly in my opinion.  Hopefully they finally ended up with a quality new coach to lead a program that has taken a huge tumble in recent years.  St. Anthony's Anthony Brama is one of the top scorers in the section.  Totino-Grace fits into the next slot by default.  Como Park and Fridley fill the last 2 slots.  The Fridley tournament has St. Anthony, Fridley and Como Park so keep an eye on that for seed theft. 

Sleeper: St Anthony.  Coach Dave Bratland gets his guys to play as hard as anyone and makes sure his top guys get the shots.  Add in a goto scorer who can get points inside against a section that has very little size and I see a sleeper.

Section Winner: DeLaSalle.  They come out of another tough game to win the section.  But don't ignore the experience at Spring Lake Park.  Columbia Heights is a serious threat with a big time scorer and a ton of athletic bodies.  If they can force opponents to play their frenetic style, they'll have a great shot to return to state.

11-12 Section 4AAA Preview

This is the 21st preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, we look at section 4AAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: St. Paul Johnson

Predicted Seeding

1. St. Paul Johnson
2. St. Thomas Academy
3. St. Paul Central
4. Hill-Murray
5. St. Paul Highland Park
6. Simley
7. St. Paul Harding
8. South St. Paul

Minor changes in 4AAA with Mahtomedi moving up to AAAA.  St. Paul Central moves in along with Simley to put the section back at 8 teams.  This is still Johnson's section to lose as they are the 3 time defending champs.  St. Thomas Academy has enough experience and discipline to give the Govs a run but I think Johnson is too deep in the end.  Central, Hill-Murray and Highland Park all fit in the middle.  With Marcus Taylor-Knighten, Will McDonough and Montrell Williams I see Central as the best of those 3.  Central can possibly steal the 2 seed with a win at St. Thomas Academy over the holidays.  Hill-Murray won't be any fun to play with center Dave Simmet.  Highland Park's guards Deon Bradley and Ty'Shaun Williams give them enough to scare in a first rounder.  Hill-Murray hosts the season opener with Central and then visits Highland Park (size vs speed in that one) before Christmas in a pair of games that will be big in the seeding process.  The bottom 3 are all in rebuilding modes.  I'll put Simley as the best of the rest with wing John Spillane, Dillon Kaup inside and shooter Sam Stensgard.  Simley and Harding will determine their seeds at the Trinity holiday tournament.   

Sleeper: Hill-Murray. I totally missed on Hill-Murray last year picking them 5th in league (went 16-0).  Nobody in the section has a matchup for center Dave Simmet.  Their 2-3 zone gives people fits and Dick Ghizoni is a very underrated coach.  Beating good Tartan teams 4 straight times isn't to be ignored.  Side Note: Johnson has knocked Hill-Murray out of the playoffs the last 4 years but at least 2 of those have been very good games.  Could very likely happen again this season.

Section Winner: St. Paul Johnson. They've been there and done that with 3 straight titles.  I think they're too athletic for the rest of the section.

11-12 Section 6AAA Preview

This is the 20th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, we move down a class and start looking at class AAA.  We'll start with section 6.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Waconia

Predicted Seeding

1. Benilde-St. Margaret's
2. Washburn
3. Richfield
4. Holy Family
5. Blake
6. Chaska
7. Holy Angels
8. Roosevelt

Big changes in 6AAA with Blake and Minneapolis Roosevelt moving up from section 4AA (though I see Roosevelt still in 4AA elsewhere on MSHSL site so stay tuned).  But we still get 6 conference represented (depending on how you want to count Holy Family).  Chaska moves down from 2AAAA after playing in the title game there last year.  No surprise there as the move almost happened last year when Chanhassen was moved out.  Defending champion Waconia leaves for section 2AAA and Mound-Westonka moves west to section 5.  Benilde-St. Margaret's is the no brainer favorite on paper even without Kyle Washington but as last year upset in the section final vs Waconia showed, that's why they play the games.  Washburn wins the Minneapolis City and takes the 2 seed.  The Holy Family and Richfield debate will once again rage with Richfield winning it, but at least they won't have a 1st round game at Richfield.  Big Ryan Dahl will a handful for anybody in the section.  Remember he went off for 36 last year in the Breakdown Tipoff Classic against a very good Braham team.  On the same theme, Blake gets knocked down due to the weak Tri-Metro but they would have had a real chance to win 4AA.  The Bears will get their chance to move up with road games at Holy Family and Richfield in February or to move down with post new year's games against Chaska and at Roosevelt.  Bottom 3 teams figure to struggle but Holy Angels is never an easy out at tourney time.  Forward Danny Sullivan is solid and guards Jordan Dembley and Delshawn Strickland are sound as well.  Their annual rivalry game with Richfield moves back from its annual last game before Christmas slot to the last day of February and should be a great preview for how the Stars will do in section play.

Sleeper: Blake. As mentioned, I think they would have been a real contender in 4AA.  Junior forward Kebu Johnson is back for what seems like his 700th season as the goto guy.  Soph point guard John Veil is under the radar now but won't be for long.

Section Winner: Benilde-St. Margaret's. I like the matchup against Washburn or Richfield so that's a part of it.  Main reason is to make up for last year's loss in the section final.  There's still 3 D1 kids there and they'll always be able to find quality role kids.

11-12 Section 3AAAA Preview

This is the 19th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 3AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Lakeville South

Predicted Seeding

1. Eastview
2. Apple Valley
3. Cretin-Derham Hall
4. Eagan
5. East Ridge
6. Rosemount
7. Henry Sibley
8. Park

A year of major change in section 3.  Defending champ Lakeville South and Burnsville leave for section 2.  Lakeville North leaves for section 1 and becomes the immediate favorite there.  Section 4 provides the replacements with East Ridge, Henry Sibley and the defending champ Cretin-Derham Hall.  Eastview as my pick to win the tough South Suburban has to also be picked the 1 seed.  CDH has a tough schedule and injuries to deal with so I'll drop them to 3 but can see them making it to 2.  The middle group of East Ridge, Eagan and Rosemount is very even, but I'll give the edge to Eagan for the final home game.  Sibley and Park are the 2 bottom teams with Sibley clearly being the better of the 2.

Sleeper: East Ridge.  With shooter Justin Pahl and the development of freshman Sidney Tomes at the point there's enough here to pay attention to.  Plus they have no games against the South Suburban which makes them a better sleeper than Rosemount (who would play those teams twice).

Section Winner: Eastview.  I think they're too big across the front line and they have a star to ride in  Joey King.  Apple Valley is scary with Tyus Jones able to go off on any given night but come section final time, teams will make others beat them and I'm not sure the Eagles have enough other firepower to do that in a big time game.

11-12 Section 2AAAA Preview

This is the 18th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 2AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Eden Prairie

Predicted Seeding

1. Eden Prairie
2. Chanhassen
3. Bloomington Kennedy
4. Lakeville South
5. Shakopee
6. Prior Lake
7. Bloomington Jefferson
8. Burnsville

After losing in the section championship, Chaska is off to section 6AAA.  Edina moves to section 6.  They are replaced by Burnsville and Lakeville South who join from section 3.  Don't get me started on why Lakeville South and Lakeville North (happiest team in the state with their new and illogical placement) were placed in sections 2 and 1 respectively.  Eden Prairie is young but more talented top to bottom than anybody else in the section.  Chanhassen as a conference champ can't fall below 2 but its a down year in the Missota so I can't put them first.   Toughest call here was where to put Shakopee.  They lose basically everything but they'll have size and Bruce Kugath does a great job year in and year out.

Sleeper: Prior Lake.  They have a quality point guard in Jon Sobaski and a pair of twin towers in Carson Shanks and Jeff Probert to throw at you.  Add in experience with Jack Harrison and an entire season of playing together and come tourney time I think they have a chance against anybody in the section.

Section Winner: Eden Prairie.  The tradition rolls on and they're the most complete team.  They defend, have quality guard play with Grant Schaeffer and Sander Mohn, and enough size and athletes to go with that to put together another state run.

11-12 Section 4AAAA Preview

This is the 17th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 4AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Cretin-Derham Hall

Predicted Seeding

1. Tartan
2. Roseville
3. White Bear Lake
4. Woodbury
5. Stillwater
6. North
7. Mahtomedi
8. Mounds View

This section will have a new champion as Cretin-Derham Hall moves to section 3.  East Ridge and Henry Sibley also move to section 3.  The replacements are Mahtomedi who moves up from class 3A and Mounds View who moves over from section 5.  As usual this is the battle of the Suburban East and Classic Suburban conferences.  Tartan as a predicted conference champ gets the 1 seed.  2-4 will fall right into line with the top half of the Suburban East standings.  I could see those shuffling in any order.  Stillwater and North will fight for the 5 and 6 seeds.  Strength of schedule goes to the Ponies.  Mahtomedi is better than the average 7 seed with Zach and Andrew Lindquist but I can't put them in front of North who I picked to finish ahead of them in league play.  That leaves Mounds View as the 8th seed in the last year for coach Ziggy Kauls.

Sleeper: Woodbury.  I had to pick them 4th here because of my conference selections but I'm already reconsidering that pick.  I'm very high on the Royals.  They have 4 top kids from last year returning plus a pair of transfers who can immediately contribute.  They have plenty of offensive firepower and if they can get out and run where Ricky Suggs is a scorer, they'll be tough to handle. 

Section Winner: Tartan.  The Titans have lost heartbreakers to Cretin-Derham Hall the last 2 years and haven't made a state trip since 2005. With CDH out of the section and no post factor in the section besides Zach Meyer to exploit them inside, I see Tartan getting back to state.

11-12 Section 5AAAA Preview

This is the 16th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 5AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Osseo  

Predicted Seeding

1. Osseo
2. Maple Grove
3. Champlin Park
4. Robbinsdale Cooper
5. Centennial
6. Park Center
7. Irondale
8. Coon Rapids

Changes for this season include Maple Grove (section 8 champ last year) and Coon Rapids (section 7) replacing Mounds View (off to section 4) and Spring Lake Park (down to 3AAA).  This is a deep section.  You have the top 4 teams from the quality Northwest Suburban including 2 defending section champs who return plenty of talent.  Add in Park Center with star guard Quinton Hooker and Cooper with super soph Rashad Vaughn and there's plenty of talent to go around.  The storyline to follow is how the 3, 4 and 5 seeds fall into place.  Cooper can really help their seed with 2 wins in the 2nd session of the Bethel holiday tournament on Dec 29/30.  Those wins would be against Champlin Park and very likely Centennial.  All 3 of those teams also play a good Spring Lake Park club and have other tough non-conference games.  Cooper ends up with the toughest schedule in the North Suburban as they play all 4 other contenders twice and only 2 of the 6 bottom teams twice.   Not to mention rival Armstrong, DeLaSalle and Hopkins on the non-conference slate.  Centennial has a bit of size and their starting guards are back.  Park Center has Hooker and 2 other athletes returning but in this section I think 6 is the exact slot for them.  Irondale drops off from last year and Coon Rapids continues to rebuild.

Sleeper: Centennial.  Lots of teams who could surprise but who ever the 5 seed ends up being is very dangerous.  Mitchell Kuck when hot can get 30 from deep.  Jared Nelson returns to run the point and they have size.  If its Cooper, Rashad Vaughn could put the team on his back.  Champlin Park would be far more talented than the average 5 seed.   

Section Winner: Osseo.  Too much talent, experience and tradition.  Ian Theisen and Bryan Gichaba inside.  Bridge Tusler is a warrior on the wing.  Michael Brush can knock down shots.  DJ Hebert and Will Johnson from the football are tough.

11-12 Section 6AAAA Preview

This is the 15th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at section 6AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Hopkins

Predicted Seeding

1. Hopkins
2. Minnetonka
3. Edina
4. St. Louis Park
5. Wayzata
6. Armstrong
7. Minneapolis South
8. Minneapolis Southwest

Minor changes in this section with Edina coming over from section 2 to replace Minneapolis North (now in section 4A).  I see no changes at the top and bottom of the section with Hopkins and Minneapolis Southwest.  Minnetonka is the clear second seed with their new additions giving them more depth than any of the remaining teams.  The next group of 4 or 5 teams gets very interesting.  The Edina holiday tournament could be a major seeding factor with Armstrong, Edina and St. Louis Park all participating.  Wayzata is good enough to be a top 4 team but I can't see a last place team in a league being rewarded with a home game when St. Louis Park will make a run in the North Suburban (would also apply to Edina if they finish last in the Lake).  South and St. Louis Park may have better records but end up with lower seeds because of playing weaker conference opponents.  I wouldn't be shocked to see the coaches stick them in that 4 vs 5 game again so they get Hopkins in the semis.  South won't be a bad 7 seed but the Minneapolis City conference is that weak.  St. Louis Park gets a very favorable schedule in the North Suburban as they only have 1 game each against the 2 favorites and double up against 4 of the 6 teams in the bottom half.  I think 3 thru 6 is very even and any combination in the 3 v 6 and 4 v 5 game would be very good games.

Sleeper: St. Louis Park.  With a no-brainer favorite, picking a sleeper is a bit crazy but if I have to pick one its the Orioles.  With Kashif Hayes running the dribble drive and another scorer in DJ Pollard on the wing they can be a handful to defend.  The other Lake teams are dangerous but too much familiarity to pick Wayzata or Edina as a sleeper.

Section Winner: Minneapolis Southwest.  Who else is there?  Of course Hopkins is the pick here.  As the preseason favorite to repeat anything less than a return to defend their crown would be a disappointment.  Too much firepower at the guard slots, too well coached and their intensity is just at another level.

11-12 Section 7AAAA Preview

This is the 14th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, I start my look at the metro area sections.  For variety sake, we'll do these in reverse order starting with section 7AAAA.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Defending Champion: Duluth East

Predicted Seeding

1. Blaine
2. Anoka
3. Duluth East
4. Forest Lake 
5. Andover
6. Cambridge-Isanti
7. St. Francis

Thanks to new section realignment, this section is down to 7 teams from 9 last year.   The new combination of Duluth Central/Denfeld was the 8th team here but recently got pushed down to section 7AAA.  This section pretty clearly comes down to Duluth East and Blaine.  The losses in most of the rest of the section are just too big and too much coming back for these top 2.  Biggest wildcard is the health of Johnny Woodard and where the Greyhounds get seeded.  With Woodard out for the 1st half or so of the season and a tough schedule especially while's he out, I think that knocks their seed down (not to mention the NW Suburban coaches possibly ganging up on them unless the section uses the QRF which is another discussion for another time).  I'm already going to upset my conference preview picks as I'm going to take Blaine over Anoka despite my preview having Anoka higher.  The Bengals are deeper than I originally thought.  Cambridge-Isanti at St. Francis on January 28th could decide the last seed in the section.  Andover stays out of the bottom 2 with home wins over Cambridge-Isanti and St. Francis.  Cambridge could really help themselves with a home win over Forest Lake on December 13th.  Forest Lake will get their chances to move up at Blaine on January 12th and at home against Duluth East on February 11th.

Sleeper: Anoka.  The Tornadoes as my 2 seed normally wouldn't qualify here but since Duluth East gets knocked down I'll make an exception.  Quality guard play is never a bad thing come playoff time and Anoka has that.  Malcolm Seals should have a breakout year and be able to run the offense.  Marcus Tyus is talented enough to carry an offense so if he gets it going he could lead them through the section.  

Section Winner: Duluth East.  Assuming Johnny Woodard is healthy for the tournament, him and Taylor Stafford are the best duo in the section.  Just too much for the rest of the section to handle.  Add in 2 straight years in the section final and last year's win and I won't pick against the champs.

11-12 The Rest Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, I conclude my look at the teams around the metro with a look at a couple of local independents and then some quick thoughts on the EMAC, Wright County and Mississippi 8.  Did you miss any of the conference previews?  For a list of all the season previews, click here.  Coming next week predictions for the metro area sections.

CHOF Lions (2010-11 season 5-17)
Senior center Tyler Strandlund remains one of the top 1 bands in the state.  Last year he averaged 21 points and 15 boards a night.  But he's the only person with any size on a tiny roster.  Guard Adam Rohlf is gone but the rest of a short rotation returns.  Shooting guard Tate Piepkorn put up 14 a night last season.  Junior Kendall Strandlund missed time last year with an injured wrist but almost reached double figures in scoring.   Soph Nate Johnston will run the point and his play will be a major barometer for the Lions.

Four Directions Wolves (2010-11 season 16-8)
They lose a couple of high scoring guards including 26.2 a night from James Red Eagle.  But 6'9 big man Kyle Roy returns in the middle as a major double-double threat and soph guard Gus Christianson and Marcus McDade return.

Eastern Minnesota Athletic Conference Thoughts
Apologies to the EMAC as I don't have enough to go on to even begin to look at the little guys but 2 quick bits from the 1 league game I saw last year.  International School does have 2 of their top 3 back including soph guard Ethan Forney.  Loss of Omar Bushara will hurt but coach Shun Tillman figures to keep the Huskies in contention for the league crown along with Great River.  Calvin Christian was 13-9 and in the middle of the EMAC pack.  They return their top player center Ben Stephens.

Wright County Conference Thoughts
Big losses in the Wright County as Jordan Smith (Orono), Mike Yahnke (Delano) and Shelby Moats (Waconia) all moved up to the D1 level.  Most of Orono's rotation except Brady Wohler is gone.  Anthonie Tholey will play a much bigger role.  Waconia has some nice pieces returning with Wylie Ferron, Alex Chandler, Tommy Gove, Matt Rachey and Alex Schmitt.   Schmitt being the only senior in that group.  Delano also returns a nice core despite losing Yahnke.  Grayson Pulis is a big body in the middle.  Junior Zach Checkal had a nice season for them last year along with Toby Hanson.  Then you have the league's top player Nate Kratch (Santa Clara signee) returning at Watertown-Mayer as 3 of their top 5 scorers return.   So I think that has to be the top group of teams.  Annandale loses star forward James Fort but returns shooter Brett Ahsenmacher.  Mound-Westonka needs to replace the duo of Matt Daoust and Dan Flesher but returns shooter Collin Host.  Ethan Maass returns to lead Glencoe-Silver Lake.  Zach Miner returns for Hutchinson but they lose their top 4 scorers including guards Adam Hjelter and Trent Kucera.  Litchfield returns their top 3 scorers so they look to jump into the top half.

Mississippi 8 Conference Thoughts
The league takes a hit with state qualifier Zimmerman and Princeton leaving for the new Granite Ridge Conference.  Defending champ Buffalo loses their top 2 scorers including sniper Andy Ortmann but junior Ethan Freer and Dominic Gilmer are 2 core pieces coming back along with Caleb Ruter. St. Michael-Albertville loses their star Joe Carpenter (top scorer and rebounder) and his sick athleticism.  The starting guards Michael Wiese and Michael Mooney both return and center Herbert Tarpeh should give them productive minutes.  Continuing down the road toward the metro, Rogers loses post Rory Donovan (16 a night), forwards Trevor Morlock and Trevor Berkley and point guard RJ Dean.  Post Michael Schreiber will be the goto guy after a nice summer.  Forward Josh Turnquist is a nice fit with him to stretch the defense.  Austin Barbeln and Chase Cleveland will man guard spots.  Big Lake loses their top 3 scorers including point guard Michael Stevens.  Soph Austin Poe is the top returning scorer.  The top 5 scorers at Monticello are gone including posts Kevin Flesch and Anthony Svaavedra.  Junior guards Ryan Tuffs and Hayden Laimer will lead the way.  Becker leaves for the Granite Ridge next year and looks to go out with a bang behind forward Damien Reinke and his 19 a night.  But they lose a ton of people after him Ryan Rosenberg returns to lead Cambridge-Isanti.  They lose shooter Ted Lutterman who was their only double figure scorer last season.  Soph Matt Swanson saw action in over 20 games last year.

11-12 Tri-Metro Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

The league welcomes Providence Academy and can go back to the full divisional schedule.  DeLaSalle has the talent but not the experience.  Concordia is the favorite on the other side.  Blake, Minnehaha, St. Agnes, St. Anthony, St. Croix Lutheran all have enough returning to beat most anybody in the league on any night.

Blake Bears (2010-11 season 19-9, 10-5 Conference, 2nd West)
Forward Tim Zellmer is the biggest loss but he sat out big minutes last year anyway due to injury.  Junior forward Kebu Johnson returns for his 4th season on varsity (seems like 500).  He led the team at 11.9 PPG last season.  Soph point guard John Veil was the 2nd leading scorer.  Paul Blake and Conner Kline return inside.  Soph JR Bascom also saw major minutes last season.

Breck Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-9 Conference, 4th West)
The Mustangs lose 4 of their top 5 scorers including 17+ a night from Jeff Lurie.  But lots of youth saw big minutes last season.  Junior point guard Tilyn Hollis, frosh forward Will Culliton and forward Michael Marzec all return after seeing big minutes last year.  Keep an eye on the Mustangs freshman class as they have a group of 4 quality kids there to build around.

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2010-11 season 3-24, 2-13 Conference, 6th West)
How long a year was it for the Centaurs?  They gave up a 46-0 run to Tartan over the holidays.  Expect another long season. Sophs Deandre Bell and DeAndre Shipp are 2 of the notable returnees. 

Concordia Academy Beacons (2010-11 season 20-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
The Beacons lose scorers 2-5 but don't sleep on them.  Sioux Falls commit Cutler Finneman returns to man the front line.  He was the team scoring leader at 17 a night last year.  4 other players from the rotation including guard Christian Koehn return for a squad that has 9 seniors.  6'6' Junior forward Jared Schneidermann gives them another lanky athlete on the front line.  Junior Charlie Kennelly should also see minutes. 

DeLaSalle Islanders (2010-11 season 25-4, 15-0 Conference, 1st West)
The Islanders enter the season on a 27 game conference winning streak.  With 6 seniors gone including beast Jonah Travis (Harvard) and the transfer of Riley Dearring to Minnetonka, this roster has very little varsity experience but is very talented.  The point guard position will be shared between senior Tyler Moore (the 1 experienced returnee) and talented frosh Jarvis Johnson (one of the top 2015 kids in MN).  Shooter Luke Scott and Shawn Fitzgibbons will see wing minutes.  Soph Reid Travis will see inside and out minutes.   Except for Moore this group will see a couple of years together so expect a huge year next year.  As is usual at D, the freshman class is absolutely loaded with talent.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2010-11 season 17-14, 9-6 Conference, 3rd West)
One of disappointments of last year was not getting to one of my favorite buildings to see the Redhawks.  They got hot late and won 8 out 9 to make a run through weak section 4AA before losing to Redwood Valley in the state quarters (big game from Mankato commit Mike Busack was the difference).  They lose 1 of their 2 weapons Matt Prior (18 a night) but 19 a night from power guard Gerald McCarver returns.  Junior guard John Prior figures to jump into double figures this season after just missing out last season.  Junior Marcellous Hazzard also saw major minutes last season.

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2010-11 season 3-21, 0-14 Conference, 5th East)
The Panthers are on a 53 game conference losing streak.  Since the league went to the 2 division format in 2006-2007, their league record is 3-74.  A shame too because recently built Lansing Center is a quality facility.  Undersized forward Nate Burstein is the top returnee with guard Eddie Freier.

Providence Academy Lions (2010-11 season 11-13, 2-7 MCAA Conference, 9th)
The Lions move into the league from the MCAA and while its means some great girls games vs DeLaSalle.  The boys program isn't at that level yet.  5 of the 7 members of the rotation are back and only 1 of them is a senior. Junior Jackson Canfield averaged over 17 a night last year.  Joe Heck put up 14 a night. 

St. Agnes Aggies (2010-11 season 13-16, 5-9 Conference, 4th East)
Now for the all saints portion of the preview.  The Aggies lose wing Mario Franco and his 9.9 a night to Woodbury.  The top 2 scorers Dakari Davison (15 PPG) and Antonio Hartfeld-McGhee (11 PPG) return.  McGhee is an athletic power wing who can be a handful to defend and is willing to take over a game. Guards Nick Bennett, Charlie Turch and Jordan Delaney also return to the rotation.

St. Anthony Huskies (2010-11 season 18-9, 11-3 Conference, Tied 1st East)
Forward Anthony Brama was a major revelation last year averaging 21 a night.  He's unorthodox but very effective.  3rd leading scorer Dustin Iannazzo also returns. Junior Nick Kampa will run the point after seeing big minutes last season.  Jordan Wiggins and forward Mike Studer will see more minutes as well.

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2010-11 season 16-12, 8-6 Conference, 3rd East)
Top scorer and interior player Kyle Prelgo is gone from his forward spot.  The guard trio of power guard Wesley Tucker, point guard Cameron Cummings and lefty shooter Mark Lawrence all return after each averaged close to double figures.  Guard Dominic Cambrice also saw significant time last season and returns.  Size will be a major question mark.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-12 Conference, 5th West)
Leading scorer and post Sam Dicke departs but the next 4 scorers return.  That includes the guard duo of point guard Spencer Egly and athletic wing Josh Gray.  Post Andrew Bullard is also gone so the Spartans will have to find some size.  Expect junior Steve Olson to fill that role.  Story to follow is where 8th grade guard Dalante Payton fits in.  He played with the freshmen last year and the Spartans are very high on him.

Predicted Order of Finish

West

1. DeLaSalle
2. Blake 
3. Minnehaha
4. Breck 
5. Providence Academy 
6. Brooklyn Center

East

1. Concordia Academy
2. St. Anthony
3. St. Croix Lutheran 
4. St. Agnes  
   
5. St. Paul Academy 
6. Mounds Park Academy

Conference MVP: Cutler Finneman - Concordia

Underclassmen to watch:  
Roger Moore Jr - Concordia
John Veil, JR Bascom - Blake
Dalante Payton - St. Paul Academy
Will Culliton, Mo Lawal - Breck
Jarvis Johnson, Sacar Anim, Reid Travis, James Lawson, Drayton Carlburg, Wheeler Baker - DeLaSalle

Games that will determine the conference title

• DeLaSalle at Blake - Dec 6th
• Concordia at St. Anthony - Dec 9th
• St. Anthony at Blake - Jan 19th
• DeLaSalle at Concordia - Jan 24th
• Blake at DeLaSalle - Feb 2nd
• St. Anthony at Concordia - Feb 17th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Trinity at Concordia - Dec 2nd
• DeLaSalle vs Robbinsdale Cooper - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Concordia at St. Cloud Cathedral tournament - Dec 28-30 
• DeLaSalle at Mike Miller Classic - Dec 29-30 (Mitchell, SD)
• DeLaSalle at Eden Prairie - Jan 17th
• DeLaSalle vs Waunakee, WI - Feb 4th (Border Battle at Sun Prairie, WI)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at DeLaSalle - Feb 7th
• Blake at Holy Family - Feb 8th
• DeLaSalle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 18th
• Blake at Maranatha - Feb 21st
• Blake at Richfield - Feb 25th
• Moorhead at DeLaSalle - Mar 3rd

11-12 Suburban East Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Suburban East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

A down year in the league as talent has departed over the last couple of years.  CDH has to be the favorite but I wouldn't be shocked to see my next group of 3 challenge them. Stillwater and East Ridge are the next group thanks to what they have coming back (top scorers).  I think the bottom 4 all struggle.

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2010-11 season 23-9, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose top scorer Raijon Kelly to Samford and also graduate post Connor Quicksell.  But there's plenty returning.  Point guard Cortez Tillman returns along with recent Wofford commit CJ Neumann up front.  Glue guy Taylor Montero will return in January after suffering a knee injury this summer.  Michael White, Kevin Miley and Luke Hamel will also see minutes up front.  Look for Teddy Chapman to see some guard minutes.  Keep an eye on their freshman class down the road as it is absolutely loaded.  It includes one of the better 2015 prospects in the state, Sam Neumann.

East Ridge Raptors (2010-11 season 14-13, 8-10 Conference, 7th)
The Raptors improved from 6 wins to 14 in year 2 of the program and jumped 2 spots in standings.  Leading scorer Justin Pahl is back as a premier shooter.  The rest of the rotation is basically gone though including guard John Hietpas who was one of their top players the last 2 seasons.  6'7 lefty junior Conrad Sexe will see time in the middle.  Guard Jared Morris figures to have a bigger role along with forward Nhamdi Nwokolo.  Don't be shocked if frosh Sid Tomes sees significant point guard time this season as the Raptors build for future years.

Forest Lake Rangers (2010-11 season 17-11, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Rangers lose their top 4 of their top 5 scorers including bomber Phil Hegseth and Evan Johnson who combined for 29 a night last season.  Guard Tyler Rosenberger is the top returner.  6'6 junior Noah Davis will provide inside play.

Hastings Raiders (2010-11 season 3-23, 2-16 Conference, 9th)
The Raiders return their top player Darius Wilkerson who averaged 11 a night last year.  Ellis Williams and Josh Monjeau return at the guard spots.  They were able to gain experience last year with plenty of returnees seeing time.

Mounds View Mustangs (2010-11 season 11-16, 9-9 Conference, 6th)
This will be the 45th and final year for legendary coach Ziggy Kauls.  With 721 wins to date, he will be hard to replace.  5 of the top 6 scorers are gone including double figure scorers Jordan Van Eps and guard Blake Anderson who combined for 30 points per game.  6'3 Forward Mike Kerfeld is the top returnee at 6 points a night.  Kevin Sharpe returns inside along with guard Chris Severson.

Park Wolfpack (2010-11 season 1-26, 0-18 Conference, 10th)
The Wolfpack come into the season with a 40 game conference losing streak.  They were by far the lowest scoring team in all of AAAA basketball at 40.9 PPG and now they lose 6 of the top 8 scorers.  Austen Kruzeski and Anthony Tola are the top returnees who saw time.  Junior transfer Trocon Barclay sat out last year after coming over from Johnson and is expected to contribute.

Roseville Raiders (2010-11 season 22-6, 15-3 Conference, Tied 1st)
The Raiders lose their top 2 scorers in wing Lucas Brown (off to Wofford) and point guard David Stanley.  That's 33 a night that needs to be replaced.  They also need to replace dirty work forward Connor Harlander who will be missed more than some may think and center Sam Peterson.  1 starter returns and that's athletic forward Emeche Wells who scored 12.7 a night and is a quality defender as well.  He sprained a knee in football but should be ready for the season.  6'6" Soph Derek Magnuson is 1 of a very good group of sophomores to watch.  He'll see minutes in the middle.  Ben Farmer (also coming off injury), Logan Brown, frosh Kobe Critchley and sniper Mackenzie Johnson return at the guard slots

Stillwater Ponies (2010-11 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, Tied 4th)
The Ponies return their top scorer, junior forward Andrew Duxbury but the next 4 scorers are gone.  That includes athletic Paxton Harvieux and forward Jake Malwitz.  Junior guards Sam Lagus (shooter) and Austin Holmberg will see guard minutes.  Lefty Josh Johnson can step out and shoot it a bit at 6'6.  He'll see minutes in the middle.  They revamped the system to go 5 out last year, we'll see if they stay with that look this season.

White Bear Lake Bears (2010-11 season 17-9, 14-4 Conference, 3rd)
The world's finest hair resides at WBL with center Zach Meyer's mullet.  He's the top returnee at 12.8 PPG.  13.2 PPG from guard Nate Sheldon needs to be replaced along with fellow guards Colton Smit and Vidal Vance.  But I think the Bears will be just fine.  Josh Tismer returns to run the point.  Lucas Allen returns as another up front player and Eric Gebeke returns on the wing.  Add in junior shooter Beau Smit and you have a nice group.

Woodbury Royals (2010-11 season 11-17, 7-11 Conference, 8th)
This team wasn't that far away last year with 12 of their 17 losses by 11 points or less.  The top 4 scorers all return.  That includes wing Ricky Suggs who fits their up and down style perfectly. (13.2 PPG only 5 3s in 150 FGs).  Shooter Renard Suggs is back.  Great stat note when looking him up.  He had 52 3s and only 30 2s last year.  I'm going to go out on a limb and say you might want to find him.  Conner McKeen and Ryan Fritzke also return as double figure scorers.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Cretin-Derham Hall
2. Roseville
3. White Bear Lake
4. Woodbury
5. Stillwater
6. East Ridge
7. Forest Lake
8. Mounds View
9. Hastings
10. Park

Conference MVP: CJ Neumann - Cretin-Derham Hall

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Sidney Tomes - East Ridge
• Kobe Critchley, Jacques Perra, Derek Magnuson - Roseville
• Sam Neumann, Kyler Briggity - Cretin-Derham Hall
• Matt Anderson - Stillwater
• Matt Ambriz- Woodbury

Games that will determine the conference title

• Cretin-Derham Hall at Woodbury - Dec 16th
• Woodbury at Roseville - Dec 31st
• Roseville at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 6th
• White Bear Lake at Woodbury - Jan 10th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at White Bear Lake - Jan 17th
• White Bear Lake at Roseville - Jan 24th
• Woodbury at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 31st
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Roseville - Feb 10th
• Woodbury at White Bear Lake - Feb 14th
• White Bear Lake at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 21st
• Roseville at Woodbury - Feb 24th
• Roseville at White Bear Lake - Feb 28th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Roseville vs Rocori- Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic)
• Cretin-Derham Hall vs Hopkins - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic)
• Minneapolis Washburn at Roseville - Dec 13th
• Champlin Park at White Bear Lake - Dec 17th
• Cretin-Derham Hall at St. Thomas Academy - Dec 17th
• St. Paul Johnson  at Roseville - Dec 20th
• Woodbury at Lakeville North - Dec 22nd
• Roseville at Midwest Players Classic - Jan 14th (La Crosse, WI)
• Cretin-Derham Hall at Eden Prairie - Jan 14th
• Roseville vs St. John's Lutheran (FL) - Jan 21 (East Metro Showcase)
• DeLaSalle at Cretin-Derham Hall - Feb 18th

11-12 South Suburban Preview

We begin week 3 of  my 2010-2011 season preview series with the 10th preview.  In this preview, a look at the South Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

A down year in the South Suburban but that's a relative term for what is still a very difficult league.  I see 8 teams that can beat you on any given night.  The top 3 stand alone with Apple Valley, Eastview and Lakeville North all making runs in the top 5 this season.  The next group of 5 is very competitive and then Burnsville and Jefferson I think will struggle at the bottom.

Apple Valley Eagles (2010-11 season 19-10, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Probably the most important loss in the league is 6'7 forward Tom Schalk who's off to William & Mary (not to be confused with Lois and Clark or Penn and Teller).  But super soph Tyus Jones returns at the point to run the show.  His athleticism has taken a step up in the offseason and now he can be a scoring force in addition to his already superior ability to run a team.  Guards Dustin Fronk (shooter) and Harry Sonie (handler who will shoot) return for what will be a very small lineup.  6'3" Soph Dennis Austin is undersized but very active and figures to see lots of minutes up front.  He'll replace the departed Josh Johnson and Gavin Bronson on the front line.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2010-11 season 4-21, 2-16 Conference, 10th)
Yes they're slowdown style is enough to cure insomnia and unwatchable but it keeps the Jags competitive.  4 wins by a total of 13 points but 8 very close losses.  They lose leading scorer Marcus Alipate and post Reggie Lynch is now at Edina.  Post Kevin Handt and wing Matt Hovila are also gone.  Ryan Gilmer is the top returnee along with juniors Brian Fritzlar and Kevin Woebke.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2010-11 season 16-12, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Leading scorer and top post Cullen Russo is off to Quakerdale Prep in Iowa.  Guard DeShun Patterson was an athletic guard.  Both depart as double figure scorers.  But the Eagles will still be loaded with guard firepower.  Point guard Darrian Pittman comes over from Maranatha.  Darrian Johnson and Rico Gunn (9.9 PPG) also return.  Jacob Kohner returns as an interior banger.

Burnsville Blaze (2010-11 season 12-14, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
The top 5 scorers are gone from a defensive minded squad that started well.  Then won a pair of 1 point games before losing 8 in a row.   Adam Lambrecht, Dan Motl and post Chase Roullier return from last year's rotation.  But in this league you need returning stars so I expect the Blaze to struggle against the tough schedule.

Eagan Wildcats (2010-11 season 21-6, 14-4 Conference, 2nd)
Eagan does suffer some heavy losses with forward Matt Hentges and sharpshooter Jameson Parsons gone.  Point guard Ben Sicoli is also gone.  But plenty returns with big guard Nick Sabatke (9.3 PPG) and forward Shea Mandli.  Guards Drew Bauer and AJ Bauer also return.

Eastview Lightning (2010-11 season 22-5, 15-3 Conference, 1st)
A talented group returns led by 6'8 F Joey King (Drake commit) at 17.6 a game.  Most of the offense will run through him.  The next 2 scorers were wings Frank Veldman and Shane McSparron.  They will be missed, especially Veldman who was a stickem defender last season.  The front line is loaded with King, Center Ben Oberfeld who is a double double threat and the return of Sam Burt (injured last season).  Burt is an athletic piece who should fit in nicely.  Point guard Darin Haugh returns to run the show as does shooter Chris Narum.  Bodies were in short supply last year so keep an eye on the depth especially in the backcourt.

Lakeville North Panthers (2010-11 season 12-15, 10-8 Conference, Tied 5th)
Another team like Eastview that was built for this season.  Leading scorer Adam Petterson and point guard Al Erickson are gone but this roster is still stacked.  South Dakota commit Tyler Flack leads the way as an athletic forward.  Brett Rasmussen is the bruiser portion of the duo.  There's also 6'3 Ryan Saarela.  The guards are solid with Trey Heid, Devin Shockley and Grant Erickson.  Shockley is a scoring threat but I'm told he'll sit out the first half of the regular season.

Lakeville South Cougars (2010-11 season 21-9, 13-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Down the street, the Cougars lose almost the entire rotation.  The top 4 scorers (Alex Richter, Jon Christensen, Riley West and Spencer Pankonin) are off to the NSIC.  Mitch Liedner will miss basketball to finish school early for football at Minnesota.  Matt Heller is the only returnee and he just missed a football game due to concussion.  But the JV squad last year was very good (pounding St. Paul City champ Johnson 60-34 on opening night).  Ty Powell will take over at the point.  Lefty Nick Sanborn will see minutes up front along with Nick Bachinski.  Roster could surprise, but I see them as a year away.  Think of them the way you may have looked at Lakeville North last year.

Prior Lake Lakers (2010-11 season 6-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
Now a look at the finest southern resort town in The Kingdom (Not fair to call it Siberia, you'll read that in the next preview).  The Lakers had already matched their 3 wins from 09-10 by New Years (3-4).  Then point guard Jon Sobaski broke his wrist and South Suburban play started.  That's a bad combination and the Lakers went 3-17 the rest of the way (including last 6 with Sobaski).  A different team this year with 7 footer Carson Shanks eligible after sitting out last year (transfer from Eastview).  2 of the top 3 scorers are gone but you have a nucleus of Sobaski (soph), Shanks and 6'10 Jeff Probert (both juniors) to build on for 2 years.  Add in forward Jack Harrison at 6'5 and you have one of the biggest potential front lines around.  Harrison and Jack Kaiser provide a full year's worth of experience.

Rosemount Irish (2010-11 season 7-21, 3-15 Conference, Tied 8th)
MN-Moorhead commit Matt Nelson leads the way as the only double figure scorer coming back.  Forward Brandon Forcier and guards Charlie Broback and Evan Mitchell also return.  Soph guard Garrett Goetz may take over the point.  Interior scorer of lefty Andrew Nelson will need to be replaced (9 PPG).

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Eastview
2. Apple Valley
3. Lakeville North
4. Bloomington Kennedy
5. Eagan
6. Lakeville South
7. Prior Lake 
8. Rosemount
9. Bloomington Jefferson
10. Burnsville

Conference MVP: Tyus Jones - Apple Valley

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Tyus Jones, Dennis Austin - Apple Valley
• Jon Sobaski - Prior Lake
• JP Macura - Lakeville North
• GT Johnson - Eagan
• Tommy Gadtke - Bloomington Jefferson
• Brett Shepley - Burnsville
• Garrett Goetz - Rosemount

Games that will determine the conference title

• Eastview at Lakeville North - Jan 10th
• Eastview at Apple Valley - Jan 13th 
• Lakeville North at Apple Valley - Jan 24th
• Lakeville North at Eastview -  Feb 10th
• Apple Valley at Eastview- Feb 14th
• Apple Valley at Lakeville North - Feb 24th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Eden Prairie at Apple Valley  - Dec 6th
• Lakeville North at Chanhassen - Dec 9th
• Lakeville North vs Champlin Park - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Prior Lake vs Osseo - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Eastview vs Benilde-St. Margaret's- Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Apple Valley vs Tartan - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Lakeville North at Eden Prairie - Dec 20th
• Eastview at Spring Lake Park - Dec 20th
• Moorhead at Eastview - Dec 23rd
• Prior Lake, Rosemount & Apple Valley at Granite City Classic - Dec 28/29 (St. Cloud)
• Lakeville North holiday tournament - Dec 28/29
• Apple Valley vs Onalaska, WI - Jan 7th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Prior Lake vs Cedar Falls, IA - Jan 7th (Timberwolves Shootout)
• Eastview at Midwest Players Classic - Jan 14th (La Crosse, WI)

11-12 St. Paul City Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the St. Paul City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

There's Johnson and there's everybody else.  Like Washburn on the Minneapolis side, Johnson swept all 3 titles last season so the future is bright.  So you have them at the top.  Then the 2 other programs that return some talent next.  Then a down Como Park program and the annual bottom feeders in Humboldt and Harding bring up the rear.

Central Minutemen (2010-11 season 14-12, 7-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Minutemen lose their top scorer Martin Smith who manned the post for them last season.  Point guard Will McDonough is back though he's more of an Allen Iverson clone than a true point guard.  Montrell Williams gives them another scorer on the wing.  More of a slasher but a good enough shooter to respect.  Soph Marcus Taylor-Knighten is an athletic forward who was a key piece last season.  Forward Jones Green also returns.  Guard Diallo Powell transfered out.

Como Park Cougars (2010-11 season 11-12, 5-5 Conference, 4th)
The 6 of the top 7 scorers for the Cougars all depart, 4 to graduation and point guard Kaysh Shaw is now at Prairie Seeds. Von Pledger I'm told also won't be back.  The top 4 scorers were all double figure scorers.  Wyatt Johnson's role will expand.  Kieron Sauer comes up from JV and will some forward minutes for a small lineup

Harding Knights (2010-11 season 7-18, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Knights lose 4 starters which includes 4 of their top 5 scorers.  Point guard Viseth Koumarn returns along with reserve guard David McClain.  Forward Earnell Barner is a 6'4 jumping jack who will have a highlight dunk or 2 during the year.  He had to play JV last year due to transfer rules.

Highland Park Scots (2010-11 season 17-10, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
Quick quiz, who led the league in scoring last year?  Not a Johnson player believe it or not.  Lefty guard Ty'Shaun Williams averaged 19.6 PPG in the 10 league games last year.  A much improved shooter who flies under the radar.  Point guard Dion Bradley returns along with forward Nate Anderson.  Cordero Washington and Darrell Hill combined for 27 a night and will need to be replaced.

Humboldt Hawks (2010-11 season 8-16, 1-9 Conference, Tied 5th)
The Hawks lost most of their rotation.  That includes double figure scores Julian Luster and Dashwan Wright. 2 rotation players return, Chase Luster and junior Dominique Khammarath.  Both averaged 6+ points a game last season.  The roster has no size so expect a very guard oriented system.

Johnson Governors (2010-11 season 25-4, 10-0 Conference, 1st)
The Govs come into the season with a 44 game conference winning streak.  With 2 wins to open the league season that would give them the 2nd longest league winning streak in conference history.  Wing Roosevelt Scott and point guard Estan Tyler are 2 major losses.  Center Chris Smith-Bond and backup guard Anthony Lee also depart.  Missouri St signee Marcus Marshall leads the way from his guard slot.  He's averaged 16.5 PPG and should approach 20 this season.  He's a really tough cover especially when his shot heats up.  Quashingm Smith and Jalen Albritton return on the wings.  Shelby Ashford is an inside banger and Waylon Johnson gives them a long athletic post who fits the style well.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Johnson
2. Central
3. Highland Park
4. Como Park
5. Humboldt
6. Harding

Conference MVP: Marcus Marshall - Johnson

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Marcus Taylor-Knighten, Felix Taylor Jr - Central
• Victor Yusef, Isaiah Brower, Darius Schumann - Highland Park
• Malik Menifee, Peirre Contell - Johnson
  

Games that will determine the conference title

• Johnson at Highland Park - Feb 6th
• Johnson at Central -Feb 21st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Central at Woodbury - Dec 6th
• Tartan at Central - Dec 13th
• Johnson at Roseville- Dec 20th
• Johnson at Best Buy Holiday Classic (Augsburg) - Dec 28-30th
• Eden Prairie at Johnson - Jan 10th
• Johnson vs Whitefish Bay Dominican, WI - Jan 14th (Midwest Players Classic in La Crosse, WI)
• Hopkins at Johnson - Jan 20th (East Metro Showcase)

11-12 Northwest Suburban Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this a preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Osseo has to be the big favorite again and then a couple of nice teams behind them in Maple Grove and Champlin Park.  Centennial could jump into that mix or be with the next group of Blaine, Armstrong and Anoka who have major losses but some talent back too.  Elk River and Andover might be better in other leagues, but hard to put them in front of the rest and Coon Rapids has some people back despite a rough year.

Andover Huskies (2010-11 season 11-16, 6-14 Conference, 9th)
Leading scorers Jake Wagner 15+ and Tyler Finnes 9 PPG are gone.  Late in the year the Huskies went to some of their JV guys.  Expect seniors Davis Johnson, Tyler Hartmann, Devon Fellerman and John Hennessey to be the core.  Junior forward Cameron Wold is worth noting as well.

Anoka Tornadoes (2010-11 season 13-14, 9-11 Conference, 6th)
The Tornadoes lose 4 starters and 7 of the top 8 scorers but not a bare cupboard.  Nebraska-Omaha commit Marcus Tyus averaged over 20 a night last season from his guard slot and I expect another big year.  6'5 Brandon Lindquist mans the middle.  Junior guard Malcolm Seals flies under the radar but should see big minutes this year giving Tyus a chance to play off the ball more often.

Blaine Bengals (2010-11 season 19-10, 15-5 Conference, 3rd)
Big loss for the Bengals as star Zach Romashko and his 21.7 a night are gone.  The next 3 scorers return with athletic wing Duke Anywanu and shooter Tanner Schumacher.  Forward Alex Cappard was that 3rd scorer.  Junior Joe Robel will take over the point from his brother Dan.

Centennial Cougars (2010-11 season 9-18, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Josh Matheson and Payton Sanders were significant contributors last season as the 2nd and 3rd scorers and need to be replaced.  The backcourt is solid with Jared Nelson back to run the point and shooter Mitchell Kuck returns after putting up over 19 a night last season.  Junior forward Ben Walker returns and the Cougars have a couple of 6'7 or so bodies that can give them some minutes inside.

Champlin Park Rebels (2010-11 season 21-6, 16-4 Conference, 2nd)
Forward TJ Okafor and his 16 a night are gone with 3 other top scorers.  Guards Michael Sales and 2nd leading scorer Anthony Hill return.  They also have a couple of seniors who can provide some athleticism.  A pair of sophs could make varsity contributions this year with Ian Smith at point and forward Matt Juneau.

Coon Rapids Cardinals (2010-11 season 4-24, 2-18 Conference, 11th)
The year was long but the top 3 scorers all return for the Cardinals.  Each averaged double figures.  That includes Edvonte Hibbler at a guard spot (12 a night) and Omot Okwan at 11.4 inside.  Only 1 major contributor lost as they continue to rebuild.

Elk River Elks (2010-11 season 7-20, 4-16 Conference, 10th)
The Elks coming off a very down year by their standards.  They lose their only double figure scorer Ben Erickson at 18+ a night.  But they do return 6 players who saw big minutes last year.  Guards Ryan Ness and Tucker Morrell combined for 18 a night.  Soph Clay Elrod will see big minutes at a forward spot after averaging over 5 a night last year.

Maple Grove Crimson (2010-11 season 18-11, 11-9 Conference, 5th)
The Crimson more than quadrupled their win total last year jumping from 4-22 to 18-11 under new coach Nick Schroeder.  Much of that thanks to 3 players who will be juniors this season.  Point guard Bryce Wojta was the leader at 15+.  Shooting guard James Morris was 2nd at 12 a night.  Forward Jake Weineke was the 5th leading scorer.  Add in 6'9 Bemidji State commit Dan Lochner in the middle and there's a nice group.

Osseo Orioles (2010-11 season 29-3, 19-1 Conference, 1st)
The Orioles lose their top 2 scorers in versatile forward Joey Sonnefeld and point guard Terez Van Pelt.  Those were the double figure scorers and were worth 33 points a night.  But plenty of talent still on hand.  Soph Ian Theisen will man the middle along with Will Johnson.  DJ Hebert and Michael Brush return on the wings.  Junior Harrison Lucas also gives them scoring punch.  Junior Bridge Tusler is a workhorse defending on the wing and can score as well.  He hit one of the most memorable shots of last year in an epic 22 point comeback at Armstrong.

Park Center Pirates (2010-11 season 9-17, 8-12 Conference, Tied 7th)
Post Kevin Handy reached the double figure mark and forward Bryan Blackhawk just missed it.  Those 2 will have to be replaced with a bunch of other seniors but there's a nice core of 3 juniors that return.  The leader is point guard Quinton Hooker who averaged almost 20 a night.  Then a pair of athletes around him on the wings.  Treyton Daniels and Darian Gates-Washington who were 10 and 9 point a game scorers.  But where is the size?

Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2010-11 season 18-10, 12-8 Conference, 4th)
Big losses for the Falcons as the top 5 scorers are gone.  That includes the high powered perimeter trio of Marquel Curtis, KJ Bluford and Levi Abercrombie who combined for over 55 a night.  But there's a quality junior trio here too.  Nick O'Hara will take over the point.  Mitchell Biewen and Konner Goettsche are forwards who can step away and shoot it.  Those will be the core for the next couple of years.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Osseo
2. Maple Grove
3. Champlin Park
4. Centennial 
5. Anoka
6. Blaine 
7. Robbinsdale Armstrong
8. Park Center
9. Elk River
10. Andover
11. Coon Rapids

Conference MVP: Marcus Tyus - Anoka

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jake McNallen - Andover
• Ian Theisen, DJ Scates - Osseo
• Ian Smith, Matt Juneau - Champlin Park
• Evan Nolan, Noble Fahnbulleh - Armstrong
• Clay Elrod - Elk River

Games that will determine the conference title

• Champlin Park at Maple Grove - Dec 20th
• Osseo at Champlin Park - Jan 10th
• Maple Grove at Osseo - Jan 13th
• Maple Grove at Champlin Park - Feb 8th
• Osseo at Maple Grove - Feb 17th
• Champlin Park at Osseo - Feb 21st

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Buffalo at Maple Grove - Dec 3rd
• Osseo vs Prior Lake - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Lakeville North vs Champlin Park - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Buffalo at Osseo - Dec 15th
• Spring Lake Park at Champlin Park - Dec 16th
• Robbinsdale Cooper vs Champlin Park - Dec 29th (Bethel Tournament)
• Osseo at Hopkins - Jan 24th
• Cooper at Armstrong - Feb 9th
• Hopkins at Maple Grove - Feb 14th

2011-12 North Suburban Preview

My 2011-2012 season preview series rolls on with the seventh preview in the series.  In this preview, we'll take a look at the North Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Benilde St. Margaret's is the big favorite to defend their crown.  After that, I see a group of Columbia Heights, St. Louis Park, Spring Lake Park and Cooper.  The unbalanced league schedule will be a huge factor here and the advantage goes to Spring Lake Park who only plays 1 top team twice (Cooper).  Compare that to Cooper who has to play all 4 of the other top teams twice.  3 games as a big favorite instead of 3 very tough games in a 16 game schedule is a gigantic difference.  After the top 5 teams, I see a significant dropoff to the bottom 6.  Expect some high scoring games in the league and guard dominated play.

Benilde-St. Margaret's Red Knights (2010-11 season 23-5, 15-1 Conference, 1st)
The Red Knights return plenty of talent.  3 D1 kids lead the way.  Northwestern commit Sanjay Lumpkin had a roller coaster year last year but should have an expanded offensive roll this year and can also be a defensive stopper from his forward position.  Guard Isaiah Zierden, 18.8 PPG last year can play on or off the ball and is capable of putting 30 up in a hurry.  He's off to Creighton.  Indiana-Purdue Fort Wayne signee Will Dunn also was right at the double figure scoring mark.   Those were the top 3 scorers so putting the ball in the basket won't be a problem for the Red Knights.  On the other hand size could be a problem.  The top 3 interior players are gone including Kyle Washington who's off to prep school in Connecticut.  He's been racking up high major offers left and right this fall.  Joe Gill is much improved and will step into that interior role.

Chisago Lakes Wildcats (2010-2011 season 7-20, 2-14 Conference, tied 10th)
Forward Benj Figini is off to Minnesota State-Moorhead after averaging 26.6 a night and a bunch of boards.  He was the only double figure scorer and 3 of the next 4 scorers also graduate.  Junior guard Adam Happ returns after seeing varsity time from February on and he can shoot it.  Forward Per Gulbranson is the top returnee.

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2010-11 season 25-7, 11-5 Conference, Tied 3rd, AAA state runner up)
Jacob Thomas, then Zach Lofton, now its Ben Glover's turn to light up the scoreboard.  Lofton's 29.6 each night will be difficult to replace but Glover is capable of matching it.  Interior players Andrew Hanson, Jordan Mills and Fay'Miss Freeman are all gone as is power guard Keanu Glover and defensive pest Rodrick Logan.  Guards Deon Sandstad and Dominique Galloway will see expanded roles.  Christian Esko returns to man the interior.  Those 3 are all juniors.

Fridley Tigers (2010-11 season 4-21, 2-14 Conference, tied 10th)
Last season was a rough year for the Tigers.  They were able to get a couple of freshman major minutes and return their top 2 scorers.  Nate Geving reached the double figure mark and Davaghndre Jones was the 2nd leading scorer.  Point Guard Ryan Backstrom returns along with sophs Michael Murray and Matt Duehn.

Irondale Knights (2010-11 season 19-9, 11-5 Conference, Tied 3rd)
Another team in the league that loses a prolific scorer as Bryan Sprang's 26.3 PPG is off to UMD.  3 other starters are gone.  Guards Mark Stasson, Kevin Poster and Jack Martinek all return.  All the size that saw major minutes graduated.  Carl Brandt will try to fill that void.

North Branch Vikings (2010-11 season 7-20, 4-12 Conference, 8th)
The top 4 scorers are gone from a thin rotation.  That includes forward Forrest Huset and 17 points a night.  Guard Tom Kinsella is the top returnee.

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2010-11 season 19-10, 10-6 Conference, 5th)
2014 star forward Rashad Vaughn came off the bench lots of last year.  Expect a monster year from him this season after a big summer.  That will help the Hawks overcome the loss of their top 4 scorers.  That includes the inside presence of Raheem Tyner (17 a night), athleticism of Charles Williams and firepower from guards Terrance Averyheart and Handful Pour at over 30 points a night.  The guard core is still talented with juniors Leroy Taylor and Billy Kellogg coming back.  Jon Lindgren will see time in the post.

St. Francis Saints (2010-11 season 5-22, 3-13 Conference, 9th)
22 a night from guard Dontay Matthews departs which is big but he was the only senior.  Guard Andy Julkowski's 13.8 PPG a night returns as the top scorer.  Soph Guard Cody Wald averaged 5 a night in 17 appearances last year. 

St. Louis Park Orioles (2010-11 season 18-10, 13-3 Conference, 2nd)
The Orioles lose their 3 top seniors including point guard Aaron Ziman, wing Marquealis Edwards and forward Joe Zangel.  That group was worth 40 points a night.  Athletic Soph Dejon Davis transfered to Washburn and junior Garrison Gillard is now at Maranatha (where he'll be a monster).  3 other major contributors also graduated.  But the Orioles tank isn't empty.  Kashif Hayes will take over at the point and should be a handful in the dribble drive.  DJ Pollard will man a wing spot and Zach Gilbert-Burke will man the inside.  All 3 of them are juniors.  With all of the losses, the Orioles will need to find some depth.

Spring Lake Park Panthers (2010-11 season 14-13, 8-8 Conference, 7th)
Point guard Derek Dahl graduates but that's the only loss in the top 5.  Sean Scott is a Josh Smith clone with his freaky athleticism and lefty shot.  He put up 21 a night last year.  Shooting guard Bryce Williams put up 16.7 a night.  Bouncy Robert Ben just barely missed putting up double figures on the front line.  Guard Jordan Thimmesch-Slepica also returns after big minutes last year.

Totino-Grace Eagles (2010-11 season 17-11, 9-7 Conference, 6th)
The Eagles lose star forward Alex Kreuser and 19.5 points a night.  Inside presence Ben Meyer was the 2nd scorer at almost 13 a night and he's also gone.  Point guard Tyler Fleming also graduated.  Shooting guard Sam Meyer is the top returnee at over 12 a night.  Forward Andy Moritko also returns.  6'9 Nick Carr provides a experienced big body in the middle.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Benilde-St. Margaret's
2. Spring Lake Park 
3. Columbia Heights
4. Robbinsdale Cooper 
5. St. Louis Park
6. Totino-Grace
7. Irondale
8. Fridley
9. St. Francis
10. Chisago Lakes 
11. North Branch

Conference MVP: Isaiah Zierden - Benilde-St. Margaret's

Underclassmen to watch:  
Michael Murray, Matt Duehn - Fridley
Cody Wald - St. Francis

Games that will determine the conference title

• Spring Lake Park at Cooper - Jan 6th
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Cooper - Jan 10th 
• Spring Lake Park at St. Louis Park - Jan 28th
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Spring Lake Park - Feb 3rd
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Columbia Heights - Feb 14th
• Cooper at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Feb 24th

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Benilde St. Margaret's vs Eastview - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Cooper vs DeLaSalle - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Montevideo vs Spring Lake Park - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Spring Lake Park at Champlin Park - Dec 16th
• Hopkins at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 16th
• St. Louis Park at Apple Valley - Dec 16th
• Eastview at Spring Lake Park - Dec 20th
• Minnetonka at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Dec 20th
• Washburn at St. Louis Park - Dec 22nd
• Cooper vs Champlin Park - Dec 29th (Bethel tournament)
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at Eden Prairie tournament - Dec 27th and 29th
• Holy Family at St. Louis Park - Feb 3rd
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at DeLaSalle- Feb 7th
• Cooper at Armstrong - Feb 9th
• Hopkins at Cooper - Feb 11th

2011-12 Missota Preview

This is the sixth preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Missota Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

A down year expected in the Missota as most teams have major losses.  Chanhassen is the exception but even they lost their best shooter Chance Panning.  Expect the bottom of the league to again have rough seasons.  There is plenty of good youth coming up across the league so that bodes well for the future.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2010-11 season 5-22, 1-13 Conference, 8th)
A rough year for the Stars last season.  But there's some talent returning.  Soph point guard Jordan Dembley is back.  Junior forward Danny Sullivan is versatile.  Big man Mike Hudson also returns inside.  Shondale and Delshawn Strickland come over from Minneapolis North. 

Chaska Hawks (2010-11 season 24-5, 13-1 Conference, 1st)
The heaviest losses in the league award goes to the Hawks who were a senior dominated roster last season.  23.2 PPG from power forward Jake White is off to Wichita State.  Athletic forward Ross Travis and his 17.6 a night are off to Penn State.  Not to mention the other double digit scorer Max Watts at guard and the rest of the rotation.  Top returner Matt Knowles saw action in only 7 games and averaged 3 points a game.  Expect a major rebuilding year but keep an eye on soph Kolby Seiffert.

Chanhassen Storm (2010-11 season 13-13, 9-5 Conference, 4th)
The 2nd and 3rd leading scorers are gone.  That includes shooting guard Chance Panning and post Eric Witthus who combined for about 25 a night.  I don't see the Storm fading though.  U of Mary commit Kevin Jensen was the top player at 14.4 a game.  The versatile forward should make a run at league MVP.  Junior Jack Kozlowski returns inside.  They have a talented freshman group ready to come through the system too.

Farmington Tigers (2010-11 season 9-18, 3-11 Conference, Tied 6th)
Leading scorer Alex Michels is gone but junior Darren Beenken returns.  He averaged just into double figures last year in a nice sophomore campaign.  Guard Austin Bassett also returns along with 6'5 soph Nick Varner who saw action in 19 games last year.

New Prague Trojans (2010-11 season 24-8, 10-4 Conference, Tied 2nd)
After a great run knocking off St. Paul Johnson in the state quarterfinals, coach Tim Dittberner decided to step down.  The top 2 scorers for the Trojans, Cale Girten off to Northern State and sharpshooting Jed Kreuser have graduated.  That's 27 points a night gone.  Center Sergio Najera returns along with forwards Trevor O'Brien and Jake Meyer.  But Kreuser, Joe Hatch and Alex Dittberner were the top guards and need to be replaced.

Northfield Raiders (2010-11 season 5-22, 3-11 Conference, tied 6th)
Leading scorer Otto Pfefferle was the only double figure scorer at 16 a night and has graduated.  The next 4 scorers are back though.  6'6 Forward Leif Olson and junior guard Eric Shepley are the top returnees.

Red Wing Wingers (2010-11 season 16-12, 7-7 Conference, 5th)
Center Isaac Sevlie is off to Minnesota State-Moorhead after averaging over 15 a night.  Guard Pat Kelly averaged 11 a night and he's done too.  Guard Joel Newman reached double figures last year and is the top returnee.  Soph Isaac Toivonen saw action in double figure games last year.

Shakopee Sabers (2010-11 season 16-11, 10-4 Conference, Tied 2nd)
Massive losses for the Sabers too as they lose their top 7 scorers.  Big soph Tyler Weiss saw action in 24 games last year.  When I saw the JV squad last year (Weiss and soph twin tower Jake Maiers), they started 4 guys 6'4 or taller so I expect a big lineup.6 players listed in last year's roster at 6'4 or taller so plenty of size coming thru the system.  We'll see how that jives with the hard-nosed defensive style that coach Kugath likes to play.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Chanhassen
2. New Prague
3. Shakopee
4. Holy Angels
5. Northfield
6. Chaska
7. Red Wing
8. Farmington

Conference MVP: Kevin Jensen - Chanhassen

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jordan Dembley, Delshawn Strickland - Holy Angels
• Nick Varner- Farmington
• Ty Buck, Isaac Toivonen - Red Wing
• Kolby Seiffert - Chaska
• Paul Friendshuh - New Prague
• Tyler Weiss, Jake Maiers - Shakopee

Games that will determine the conference title

• New Prague at Chanhassen - Jan 24th 
• Shakopee at Chanhassen - Feb 3rd
• Chanhassen at New Prague - Feb 21st
• Chanhassen at Shakopee - Mar 2nd

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Shakopee at Owatonna - Dec 8th
• Lakeville North at Chanhassen - Dec 9th
• Shakopee at Woodbury - Dec 10th
• New Prague at Holy Family - Dec 13th
• Chanhassen at Buffalo - Dec 13th
• Chanhassen at St. Thomas Academy - Dec 22nd
• Chanhassen at Best Buy Holiday Tournament (Augsburg) - Dec 28-30th
• Shakopee at Lakeville North tournament - Dec 29-30th
• Eden Prairie at Shakopee - Jan 3rd
• Chanhassen at Eden Prairie - Jan 6th
• Chanhassen at Holy Family - Jan 17th

2011-12 Metro Charter Preview

This is the fifth preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the new Metro Charter Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

This feels like a rehash of the old Metro Lakes conference but having a conference beats not having one.  Original reports had St. Paul Prep in here as well but since they aren't on schedules, they aren't included here.  Prairie Seeds has to be the big favorite.  FAIR and MTS should be a good battle for the 2 slot.  Spectrum and St Croix Prep move up to varsity this year and should fight for the 4 and 5 spots with Math and Science at the bottom.  Highlight of the season is that we finally get to settle the debate over the mascot with the most mange (MTS or PSA).

FAIR Downtown Falcons (2010-11 season 18-9)
The Falcons return 5 of their top 6.  That includes leading scorer Darrion Scott (21.9 PPG) and lefty frosh John Warren on the wings and 16.6 PPG from 6'4 post Desmond Williams.  They only went 6 deep last year so depth could be an issue

Math & Science Academy Dragons (2010-11 season 3-8)
Not much known about the Dragons except seeing them struggle mightily 2 years ago in the playoffs.  They lose only 1 senior.  After looking at last year's scores, hard to believe they won't take up the 6 spot in the league this season.

Minnesota Transitions Wolves (2010-11 season 23-7)
The Noreen era at MTS is over after 7 years, 3 state trips, 1 title and an overall record of 178-36 (Kevin's teams won 2 more games in his 6 years).  But a tough loss at the buzzer to Maranatha in the section final leaves a sour taste coming into this season.  The losses are as big as any in the state with the loss of leader Kyle Noreen (29.5 PPG, signed with Radford), wing Rodney Owens (19.4 PPG) and forward Matt Lanier (15.4 PPG).  The Wolves won't be the powerhouse of years past but don't sleep on them either as they won't be terrible.  They may just get back to the old run and gun ways with this roster.  Lefty forward David Wallendorf is back after missing last season and he can shoot it.  He'll need to have a huge year.  Tyler Davis is another shooter coming back.  Big body Tevin Sims returns in the middle.  Terence Lofton is a another scorer. 

Prairie Seeds Academy Lycans (2010-11 season 16-7)
The Lycans lose 2015 star Jarvis Johnson to DeLaSalle but reload with their own transfers.  Lefty PG Kaysh Shaw comes over from Como Park.  Post Gage Deis transfers in and will be a dominant force in this league.  He'll make up for the loss of forwards Chris Jones and Charles Robinson.  Senior Trent Pollard returns and can play either guard slot.


St. Croix Prep Lions (2010-11 season N/A, JV Program only)
Lots of youth for the Lions and head coach Jon Leisener.  Soph Wes Berg will play inside and out for the Lions and be their top player.  Their point guard is currently nursing a bum ankle but should be ready for the season.  Their read and react system should be fun to watch and it looks like their trying to build things the right way.


Spectrum Sting (2010-11 season N/A, JV Program only)
Not sure if this was a true JV only program or not as they do have a record listed but it appears they threw the JVs out there for experience.   Expect Johnny Erickson to make an impact inside for them.


Predicted Order of Finish

1. Prairie Seeds
2. FAIR
3. Minnesota Transitions
4. Spectrum
5. St. Croix Prep
6. Math & Science

Conference MVP: Gage Deis - Prairie Seeds

Underclassmen to watch:  
John Warren - FAIR
Wes Berg - St. Croix Prep

Games that will determine the conference title

• Minnesota Transitions at Prairie Seeds - Dec 6th
• FAIR at Prairie Seeds - Dec 21st
• Minnesota Transitions at FAIR - Jan 5th
• Prairie Seeds at Minnesota Transitions - Jan 31st
• Prairie Seeds at FAIR - Feb 3
• FAIR at Minnesota Transitions- Feb 16th

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Prairie Seeds at Minneapolis Washburn - Jan 14th?
• Prairie Seeds vs Lakeview Christian - Jan 28th (Washburn Classic)
• FAIR vs Minneapolis North - Jan 28th (Washburn Classic)

2011-12 MCAA Preview

This is the fourth preview in my 2011-2012 season preview series.  In this preview, a look at the Minnesota Christian Athletic Association (MCAA).  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Its a year of change in the MCAA.  Providence Academy leaves for the Tri-Metro and is replaced by PACT (thanks to MCAA Bylaws change last year).  That makes sense since PACT played everybody in the MCAA anyway (except Trinity).  The league also goes to north and south divisions.  Teams will play home and home in the division and 1 game against the other division for 13 league games.  A major departure from the 1 game round-robin schedule of years past.  But it looks like some form of the annual conference tournament will maintained.  Though this year it looks like it will be at Trinity instead of championships at Heritage.

The North half looks to be the far stronger half with powerhouse Maranatha at the top.  Heritage, West Lutheran and PACT return most of their rosters and Legacy returns arguably the best big man in the league with a handful of other returnees.  The South half figures to be very close with Trinity and LP/HT at the top.  New Life and Southwest Christian after that but dangerous.  Overall, I see the league rebounding from a down year last year.

Bethany Academy Eagles (2010-11 season 11-13, 1-8 Conference, 10th)
Leading scorer Max Mattila returns with 13.7 PPG.   The next 4 scorers including guard Tony Ervin (12.8 PPG) are all gone.  Look for bigger roles from soph Sam Hagen and senior Jordan Nieuwsma.


Heritage Christian Academy Eagles (2010-11 season 19-9, 7-2 Conference, 2nd)
Leading scorer Nick Parkhurst and his 17 points a night graduated but the Eagles return the other 5 major players in their rotation and 4 of them are juniors.  Zach Weld and Brad Basco (post) both averaged double figures last year and Evan Parkhurst will likely fill Nick's role.  Senior Theo Liedall also averaged over 8 points a game.  

Legacy Christian Academy (2010-11 season 11-16, 5-4 Conference, 4th)
Legacy will have to replace inside presence Matt Clausen and guard Grant Anderson who combined for well over 20 a night.  6'6 Senior center Ben Freeby returns and averaged 14 a night.  He can also block shots.  Guards Ryan Kopka, Nate Hinrichs and reserves Nate Johnson and Luke Yaeger all return as well.

Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity Bulldogs (2010-11 season 14-14, 5-4 Conference, 5th)
The Bulldogs have a big hole to fill inside as versatile big David Anderson and his 16.9 points a game were a team high last year and he's graduated.  The next 4 scorers are back though.  Senior guard Jared Kadrie is the top returnee at 15.7 points a night.  Soph Nick Machemehl averaged over 8 a night last season.  The lineup is small but the Bulldogs should still be very respectable.

Maranatha Christian Academy Mustangs (2010-11 season 26-3, 9-0 Conference, 1st)
It was a deep lineup last year for the Mustangs with 6 players averaging double-figures.  3 of those players return including soph guard Josh Goldschmidt, senior shooter Jamey Hammond and forward Isaiah Hanson.  Point guard Darian Pittman was the catalyst, he transferred to Bloomington Kennedy and leading scorer SaVaughn Jordan graduated as their post presence.  Another Hanson is in line as I expect frosh Jeremiah Hanson to contribute as some point during the season.  Rumor says junior wing Garrison Guillard is coming over from St. Louis Park which would add more firepower.  He saw lots of time last season as a sophomore.

New Life Academy Eagles (2010-11 season 10-16, 3-6 Conference, 7th)
Forward Alex Heiser was the leading scorer last year at 14 a game and he returns.  They do lose their next 2 scorer in Cody Linton and inside body Sam Berg.  Sophs Kyle Linton and John Horner saw plenty of minutes last season.

PACT Charter Panthers (2010-11 season 8-16, 0-10 vs MCAA teams, N/A)
The Panthers played everybody in the league last season except Trinity and went winless in all 10 games (9 on the road though) by at least 26 points each time.  It was a very young roster with only 2 seniors.  The top 5 scorers all return including junior guard Drew Zieroth who averaged 18 a night last season (only double figure scorer).  Junior Austin Sheeley and soph Daniel Nelson are forwards with experience along with senior guard Austin Coons and soph guard Danny Mooers. 

Southwest Christian Stars (2010-11 season 10-18, 2-7 Conference, 8th)
Leading scorer Josh Kennedy lit up the scoreboard for 24 a night last season but has graduated.  The next 4 scorers all return though.  Brian Horner averaged double figures from a guard slot.  10 players saw action in at least 10 games and only 2 of those are gone.  So there is experience.

Trinity Tri-Hawks (2010-11 season 16-12, 6-3 Conference, 3rd)
With Pittman's transfer, the league's top player and point guard resides at Trinity.  That's Tony Kuplic and his 28.2 PPG last year.  Guard Dan Stanton and forward Aaron Gregg both averaged double figures and need to be replaced.  Guards Josh Koletar and Jim Brickweg look to pick up the slack.  Junior guard Caleb Dahl also returns.

West Lutheran Warriors (2010-11 season 20-8, 5-4 Conference, 6th)
The Warriors were middle of the MCAA pack last year, lose only 2 seniors and return their top 9 scorers.   That includes double-figure scorers Justin Anderson (11.8 PPG) and junior Dustin Barth (10.8 PPG).  Look for a very balanced attack.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division

1. Maranatha
2. Heritage
3. West Lutheran  
4. Legacy
5. PACT

South Division

1. Trinity
2. Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity
3. New Life
4. SW Christian
5. Bethany

Conference MVP: Tony Kuplic - Trinity

Underclassmen to watch:  
Josh Goldschmidt, Jeremiah Hanson- Maranatha
Daniel Nelson, Danny Mooers - PACT
Paul Draeger, Andrew Stavig - West Lutheran
Sam Hagen - Bethany
Nick Machemehl - Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity
Johnny McClure - Trinity


Games that will determine the conference title

• Heritage at Trinity - Jan 3rd
• Maranatha at Heritage - Jan 6th
• Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity at Trinity - Jan 10th
• Heritage at Maranatha - Feb 7th
• Trinity at Lester Prairie/Holy  Trinity - Feb 9th
• Maranatha at West Lutheran - Feb 9th
• Conference Tournament - Feb 25th at Trinity

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Maranatha at Duluth East - Dec 3rd
• Lakeview Christian at Legacy Christian - Dec 10th
• Dawson-Boyd vs Maranatha - Dec 10th (Breakdown Tipoff Classic at Minnetonka)
• Minnetonka at Maranatha - Dec 15th
• Heritage at Lakeview Christian - Dec 17th
• New Life at Lakeview Christian - Jan 7th
• Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau vs Maranatha - Feb 4th (Border Battle at Sun Prairie, WI)